In every sport, there are the talkers, the doers, and the all-rounders (they talk the walk as it were). These groups of 'experts' are tough to separate at first glance. As a new 'initiate' into the world of hunting, making sure your head is filled with the right advice and practical skills will save your life when the wild gets a little too lively.
Let’s all be honest whoever said “blade steel is not everything” most certainly doesn’t own an Arno Bernard knife forged from N690 Bohler Steel. Yes, of course Arno Bernard also uses the best heat treatment techniques, innovative blade designs and add exotic African-inspired handles – but the steel is really the essence of the blade. N690 Bohler Steel can be defined as a cobalt-enriched stainless steel from the Austrian steel company Bohler. Seeing as knives become a lifelong companion, we here at Arno Bernard feel we should enlighten you not only on what N690 Bohler Steel entails, but also why it would the best choice of steel for you!
Arno Bernard’s knives are known to have the perfect balance between edge retention and performance – we would ascribe this to the steel we use. N690 Bohler Steel is extremely fine grained creating a blade that will retain its sharpness when subject to periods of use. Let’s face it, all blade experts will tell you that the finer the steel grain - the better the edge retention. By adding cobalt, an extremely unusual alloying element, an extra edge is provided. Having cobalt mixed into the steel creates an uncommon uniformity providing a fine and consistent edge, enhancing edge retention and sharpening receptivity. Coming from Arno Bernard we feel we can safely argue that the edge-holding ability of N690 is superior to most stainless formulations.
By combining various alloying elements (chromium, vanadium, manganese, molybdenum, etc.) N690 is known for its corrosion-resistant stainless steel. Bohler Steel resists deterioration and corrosion such as rust caused by external elements like humidity, moisture and salt. What’s also great about N690’s stainless steel properties is the way it thrives in most conditions leading to a flawless adaptability - ideal for hunting knives. But one must also take care of your life long companion! For a few tips, read our article titled: Here are some finer points to help you take care of your Arno Bernard knife (https://arnobernard.com/blogs/to-the-point/how-to-take-care-of-your-hunting-knives).
Not only are Arno Bernard Knives cut from Bohler N690 steel, followed by freehand hollow ground and hand polished. They are also heat treated and tempered using a liquid nitrogen process. This leads to a staggering hardness and ability to resist deforming when subject to stress and applied force. N690 is once again the winner of steels by resulting in a blade that is 59-60 on the Rockwell hardness scale.
Tough, Tougher, Arno Bernard
And what about toughness? Well it’s right there in our slogan…
Tough enough to use - Nice enough to collect
If you are searching for a blade that can offer edge retention, stain and corrosion resistance, hardness and added toughness – look no further! An Arno Bernard knife forged from N690 Bohler Steel – is not only the right, but the BEST choice for you!
